The return to the royal palace was quieter than expected, but the tension in the air was palpable. Elias walked with calm, measured steps, his robes brushing the marble floors as they entered the grand hall.
Behind him, Prince Aedric and Lady Selene followed in silence, though both wore expressions of barely concealed frustration.
As they crossed into the palace's inner courtyard, a royal attendant hurried toward them. His uniform was immaculate, but his anxious expression betrayed his nervousness. It was Xavier, one of the emperor's closest advisors.
"Priest Elias," Xavier said, bowing deeply. "His Majesty has summoned you to the throne room immediately."
Elias blinked, his calm demeanor masking the flicker of surprise that crossed his mind. He hadn't expected a direct audience with the emperor so soon — especially not after the events at the temple.